Genital Herpes - Causes, Symptoms and Treatment

Genital herpes Definition

Genital herpes is a sexually transmitted viral infection. Genital herpes may be characterized by repeated eruptions of small, painful blisters on the genitals, around the rectum, or covering adjacent areas of skin. Outbreaks of genital herpes are closely related to the functioning of the immune system. Women who have suppressed immune systems, either through stress, disease, or medications, have more frequent and longer-lasting outbreaks.

The disease is characterized by the formation of fluid-filled, painful blisters in the genital area. The word "herpes" comes from the Greek adjective herpestes, meaning creeping, which refers to the serpent-like pattern that the blisters may form. Genital herpes is also known as Herpes Simplex - Genital, Herpesvirus 2, and HSV-2.

Genital herpes Causes

Genital herpes may be caused by two viruses:

• herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1)
• herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2)

Herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) is the virus responsible for common cold sores. It may be transmitted through oral secretions. This is either during kissing, or by eating and drinking from contaminated utensils. Herpes simplex virus type 2(HSV-2) may be causes the majority of genital herpes. Herpes simplex virus type 2(HSV-2) may be transmitted through oral or genital secretions. An estimated 86 million people worldwide are thought to have genital herpes.

There are eight different kinds of human herpes viruses. Viruses are different from bacteria. While bacteria are independent and can reproduce on their own, viruses cannot reproduce without the help of a cell. Viruses enter human cells and force them to make more virus.

Genital herpes Symptoms

For people with no prior contact with Herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) or Herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2), initial infection is characterized both by systemic as well as by local symptoms and signs. The prodrome for recurrent infections may be severe and cause a severe burning or stabbing pain in the genital area, legs, or buttocks.

The other symptoms of the genital herpers may be included:

• pain
• fever
• burning
• itching
• tingling
• malaise
• myalgia
• headache
• muscle aches
• decreased appetite
• burning sensation of the skin

Genital herpes Treatments

Genital herpes may not be cured. However, treatment may be relieved the symptoms. Medication can rapidly decrease the pain.

The treatment of infection with herpes simplex infections is by topical or oral anti-viral medication.

In addition, sexually active persons should know that safer sex practices, such as the use of condoms, help prevent the acquisition of Herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2).

Four oral agents are currently being prescribed, including acyclovir (Zovirax), famciclovir (Famvir), penciclovir (Denavir), and valacyclovir (Valtrex).